Mrs Universe New Zealand shines bright at New York Fashion Week

An Auckland-based model stole the show as she cat walked for an American designer at New York Fashion Week.

Sabrina Faruk, the 2023 Mrs Universe New Zealand winner, achieved her dream as she became a key part of Marc Defang's runway show.

"It was an honour to be a showstopper; it just leaves a lasting memory, truly blessed."

Sabrina Faruk on the runway. Photo/ Supplied

Thinking back on her journey, she says boarding the plane to New York and walking for an American designer were both highlights of her trip.

As well as being Mrs Universe New Zealand, Faruk was crowned Mrs Kindness Universe in Manilla in the Philippines in the main Mrs Universe beauty pageant.

"It's a responsibility of honor and pride to represent my country," she says

"New Zealand is well known for kindness and diversity, and displaying that in a foreign country with ninety-six contestants was an amazing feeling."

Faruk says that her focus is solely on challenging herself, and self-improvement and that every other constant was 'amazing ' in their way.

"I am not competing, I am competing with myself and I value every other contestant but I am there for myself."

Apart from her role as a fashion model, Faruk is the mother of three boys, and works as a full-time nurse.

"It comes with passion and I love being a mum, that is my number one priority, my children.

"Being Mrs Universe New Zealand is a platform where I can reach out and help all the vulnerable."

Sabrina Faruk modeling at New York Fashion Week. Photo/ Supplied

In terms of vulnerable people, Faruk has a greater understanding than most given her experiences of domestic abuse when she was married.

Her eldest son was three-years-old when he witnessed the physical assault.

"I did not believe in leaving, but the second my son witnessed it, I left and that was the best decision of my life and for my children."

Faruk says she's learned from her past and advocates others to make sure they don't "settle for less".